This species is characterized by the following: first dorsal fin pattern and coloration variable between individuals, typically, first dorsal fin rounded, moderate height, white margin, and one brown or black stripe inframarginally; the first spine of first dorsal fin always longest, rarely elongated; rounded to elliptical red-orange spots present ventral to inframarginal stripe, turning black in preservative; the second dorsal fin with yellow-orange margin and one black band inframarginally, rounded red-orange spots present on membrane between elements at base, turning black in preservative; live color with caudal and pectoral fins red-orange; prominent pelvic frenum, inner rays fused for less than half their length; ventero-posterior branchiostegal membrane dusky; D1 modally X; D2 modally I,12; A I,11; caudal fin modally 14 segmented rays; 48-60 lateral scales; 17-22 predorsal scales (Ref. 83659).